For 小蓝视频 nursing student Seth Rostker, making a difference isn鈥檛 a dream, it鈥檚 a daily practice. A Kirbo Scholar, peer mentor and immersive learning enthusiast, Rostker embodies the spirit of service and academic excellence that defines the Keigwin School of Nursing.
Originally from West Bloomfield, Michigan, Rostker was accepted to the University of Michigan, Michigan State and Duke, among others, but ultimately chose Jacksonville University. 鈥淲hen I toured JU, I instantly knew it was something special,鈥� he said. 鈥淔rom its breathtaking waterfront views to its many outdoor study spaces, it truly took me by surprise. The passion the professors have at JU is unlike anything I have ever seen before.鈥�
Currently pursuing his Bachelor of Science in Nursing, Rostker is thriving in the classroom, the skills lab and helping others do the same. As a Kirbo Scholar, he has led more than 50 exam review sessions and supported students in mastering critical nursing techniques. 鈥淚f I could help by making nursing school a little less stressful, that was my goal,鈥� he said. 鈥淲e all have things going on outside of nursing school, so the support matters.鈥�
Rostker also serves as a nurse tech at the Jacksonville Mayo Clinic鈥檚 cardiovascular unit, where his patient-first mindset guides every shift. 鈥淢y goal each shift is to make an impact on at least one patient's journey,鈥� he said. 鈥淣obody wants or plans to be in the hospital, so if I can be that one person who puts a smile on a patient's face, then and only then I am doing my job correctly.鈥�
Faculty members have taken notice of Rostker鈥檚 dedication. 鈥淪eth is a go-getter. He is someone whose whole heart is dedicated to becoming a nurse and caring for others,鈥� said Dr. Ginger Strong, clinical assistant professor of nursing. 鈥淗e seeks out information and experiences above and beyond the classroom. He is dependable and a model for student engagement.鈥�
This fall, Rostker鈥檚 impact will extend internationally. He departs in August to study abroad at the Sant鈥橝nna Institute in Sorrento, Italy. It will be his first time traveling outside the country, and he will serve as the program鈥檚 first-ever Residential Assistant. 鈥淚 will make it my goal to ensure that each student feels like I am there to support them, mentor them and help them through all of the stress that they may have.鈥�
Looking ahead, Rostker hopes to join the United States Air Force as a nurse. His plans are inspired by the legacy of his grandfather, a Holocaust survivor who found freedom in America. 鈥淚 want to join the United States Air Force to give back to the country that gave my family so much,鈥� he said. 鈥淢y goal in life is to travel the world as a nurse and activist for individuals who can鈥檛 or don鈥檛 have the opportunity to fight for themselves.鈥�
From Jacksonville to Italy and beyond, Seth Rostker鈥檚 journey is a powerful reminder of how purpose, service and education can shape a life and transform the lives of others.
